Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

What is Project 543?

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

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Experience a little Switzerland in North Carolina

On the outskirts of Pisgah National Forest sits the mountain-view suites and chalets of Switzerland Inn. Built in 1910, the inn in Little Switzerland will whisk you away from an ordinary mountain getaway to a unique stay on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose from eight accommodation options and four restaurants during your stay. Anna Twelvetrees, a secretary to one of the investors in the original property purchase, suggested the name after hearing the founder of the community describe his recent trip to Switzerland, noting that the landscape of the region resembled the terrain in his tales. A number of things to do nearby like golfing, hiking Mount Mitchell, zip lining, shopping or riding the Diamondback complete the leisurely mountaintop paradise.